Is landlord responsible for black mold remediation cost?« Back to Previous Page
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We've lived in our Jumeirah apartment for 2 years and just noticed a patch of black mold in the corner of our bedroom closet. It’s been getting worse since the humidity spiked a few weeks ago, and my youngest has developed a persistent cough that won't go away. As a tenant, am I responsible for the cleaning and remediation costs, or is this something the landlord has to handle and pay for?
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Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and ensuring it is habitable. This includes addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as faulty waterproofing, leaking central AC systems, or structural problems that lead to moisture intrusion and subsequent mold growth.
However, liability can become complex. If the mold is determined to be a result of tenant behavior—such as a failure to use the provided air conditioning adequately to control humidity, chronic failure to use bathroom exhaust fans, or introducing excessive moisture through activities like drying clothes indoors—the responsibility and associated costs could shift to the tenant. The humid climate of Dubai, especially during summer months, makes year-round AC operation critical not just for cooling but for dehumidification. Condensation can form rapidly on cold surfaces if humidity is not controlled. Given the presence of a health symptom (your child's persistent cough), this elevates the situation beyond a simple cleaning task. Black mold requires professional assessment and remediation. We strongly recommend you immediately inform your landlord or property management company in writing and request a professional mold inspection. A certified inspector can identify the moisture source, assess the contamination level, and determine liability. For a definitive assessment and safe, effective remediation that protects your family's health, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive inspection and a clear path to resolution. |
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